Chubby Bruno is Viral Sensation

A chubby cat with extra toes and a strange habit of standing on his hind legs has been adopted after becoming a viral sensation. Bruno, who weighs in at a hefty 25 lbs., was snapped up after 150 internet viewers fell in love with his eccentric behavior.

The Wright Way Rescue shelter in Illinois, posted his profile describing him “lazy” and “high maintenance.” But that didn’t matter when the oddball moggy struck a chord with pet lovers who were also unconcerned he is a polydactyl—a cat with extra toes

Bruno’s post read: “I am a seven-year-old polydactyl cat who is 25 pounds… I like to stand on my hind legs! This usually happens when I want food.”

He was quickly adopted by Lauren Paris and her boyfriend Jason Bartlett, who both live in Chicago. Lauren, who works in musical theatre, went the extra mile to beat other would-be owners by writing and performing a song about her desire to adopt Bruno.

Lauren said: “I first saw Bruno in Wright Way Rescue’s post that was going viral. There were two pictures of him standing on his hind legs, showing off his curvy body, and a fabulously written bio. There is no other way to put it, than to say – I freaked out at my desk. I just knew we would be a perfect match.”

Bruno’s new owners said that he has settled in well at his new home. He is also very cuddly and affectionate with other people, they said.

The couple have even created an Instagram account for the cat, where they post photos and videos of Bruno. The cat currently has 34,000 followers.

Lauren added: “I am so happy to report that thus far, Bruno’s transition into our home has been seamless. From the moment, he stepped out of the carrier when we brought him home, he’s really seemed at ease. He is incredibly affectionate and cuddly, constantly purring. Bruno so far has exceeded our wildest expectations, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him as part of our family.”